Research Associate in Biomedical Engineering

The Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Virginia seeks a Research Associate to work in the Janes laboratory (Systems bioengineering approaches for cancer and virology) and the Stukenberg laboratory (Mitosis and regulation disruption in cancer). This position will focus on developing computational models of mitotic signaling, their integration with phase separation dynamics, and the experimental validation of relevant predictions.

The primary goal is to investigate emergent signaling properties required for proper chromosome segregation and to identify targetable network vulnerabilities in cancer.

The applicant will be expected to work with a multidisciplinary team, interact with graduate students, perform computational and theory-guided mathematical modeling, design and execute experiments, and contribute to publications.

QUALIFICATIONS: A Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering or a related field, with a dissertation focused on reaction-diffusion models and phase separation dynamics applied to mitotic signaling, by the start date. Coursework in differential equations, bioinformatics, transport phenomena, numerical methods, statistical methods in research, advanced thermodynamics, programming for biological sciences, computation and modeling in BME, quantitative biological reasoning, fundamentals in cancer biology, genetic engineering, advanced topics in cancer, and research ethics.

The following qualifications are required: the ability to develop kinetic-diffusion models related to mitotic signaling in VCell; integrate kinetic-diffusion models with phase separation implementations using computational tools in different programing languages; deep understanding of mitotic signaling, chromosome instability, and signaling disruption in cancer; proficiency in programming (VCell, MATLAB, R, python) for computational modeling and data analysis; ability to work in multi-disciplinary teams and with concurrent mentors; strong oral and written communication skills; strong publication record and grant acquisition in relevant fields; ability and experience mentoring undergraduate and graduate students; wet lab and microscopy experience.

The following experience is preferred: broad knowledge in mitotic dysregulation in breast cancer; the ability to gather, analyze, and synthesize complex information to draw model assumptions and parametrize dynamic models; experience developing kinetic models with advection and implementing Cahn-Hilliard models for phase separation; familiarity with molecular biology techniques such as viral transductions of mammalian cells, proteins purification, Western Blotting, chromosome spreads, primary cells isolation, organoids culture, and murine models; training and experience in microscopy and imaging.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply online at https://jobs.virginia.edu/usand search for position numberR0087538. Attach a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin ten days from the posting date, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires before employment.

The anticipated salary is $62,000 - $65,000, commensurate with experience.

This is a one-year appointment, and the appointment may be renewed contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For questions about the position, please contact Prof. Kevin Janes, kjanes@virginia.edu..

For questions regarding the application, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at rkh6j@virginia.edu.

For more information on the benefits available to research scientists at UVA, visit hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.